How I work:

My Approach to Financial Planning: Simple, Flexible, and Focused

At The Financial Handyman, I take a practical, project-based approach to financial planning—designed to be more accessible, affordable, and tailored to your needs.

Much like your local handyman, I help fix specific financial problems and complete targeted planning projects. Whether it’s creating a budget, tackling debt, reviewing retirement strategies, or answering tax-related questions, I focus on what matters most to you—right now.

Clear Quotes, No Surprises

Before we begin, I’ll give you a clear, upfront quote for the work you need. If, during the process, I uncover other areas that may need attention, I’ll bring them to your awareness and discuss any additional costs or options. You stay in control, and nothing moves forward without your approval.

Segment-Based Financial Planning, Not Just Full Plans

Unlike traditional financial advisors who offer only comprehensive (and often costly) plans, I provide a modular, segmented approach. This allows us to address your most pressing concerns—one problem, one project at a time.

Need a full financial plan? That’s always an option—available when and if you want it.

A Smarter Way to Get Financial Help

This approach is ideal for Canadians who:

  • Want affordable financial planning without paying for services they don’t need

  • Prefer fee-only, advice-only financial help with no product sales or hidden agendas

  • Have specific financial goals or challenges and need expert support

  • Value transparency, simplicity, and flexibility

Transparent, Fee-Only Financial Advice You Can Trust

I am compensated exclusively through my fees—with no hidden commissions or product sales involved. Unlike many in the industry, I do not manage investments on your behalf, nor do I receive referral fees from any product providers I might recommend. This ensures my advice is completely unbiased and focused solely on your best interests.

As a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), I adhere to strict Professional Standards and a rigorous Code of Ethics, ensuring integrity and accountability in every client relationship.

Since I am no longer licensed to sell securities, the investment advice I provide is general and educational in nature, including:

  • Assessing your risk tolerance and appropriate asset allocation

  • Reviewing investment fees and platforms

  • Offering product analysis and guidance

  • Providing investment education and DIY investing tips

I do not offer individual security recommendations (such as “buy” or “sell” of specific stocks or bonds), nor do I manage your investments directly. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to make informed investment decisions that fit your unique situation.

Typical Clients have had…

  • Common Financial Challenges and Goals We Help You Solve

    • Struggling to pay off debt efficiently and reduce financial stress

    • Managing cash flow and budgeting for a more secure financial future

    • Seeking to improve your knowledge of investments, insurance products, and debt instruments

    • Looking to lower investing costs or build a do-it-yourself (DIY) investment portfolio

    • Feeling uncertain about how to best use retirement savings tools like RRSPs and TFSAs

    • Wondering if you are truly prepared for retirement and how to improve your readiness

    • Making important decisions about when to start collecting pensions for maximum benefit

    • Planning to purchase your first home and want financial guidance to make it happen

    • Exploring tax-efficient strategies for withdrawing funds from your RRSPs

    • Supporting adult children with their own financial plans and goal-setting

    • Working with the same bank or advisor for years but seeking an unbiased, second opinion without sales pressure

    • Confident in managing your own finances but wanting a professional review or someone to brainstorm ideas with

    • Needing guidance and support during major life changes like marriage, having children, or retirement, and understanding the financial impact

    • Single professionals looking for a trusted financial partner to consult with regularly

    • Earning a solid household income but feeling stuck and unsure how to achieve your financial goals

Services